Configuration for Edgewater EdgeMarc Series
Overview
The Accelerated 6300-CX Cellular Extender provides a reliable, high-speed cellular connection that is compatible with existing wireline infrastructure. While its 4G LTE speeds are capable of operating as a primary WAN uplink, the 6300-CX can also be configured as a backup. This network redundancy solution delivers the ultimate flexibility to minimize expenses when it comes time for upgrading equipment to the latest wireless standards.
Business continuity depends on the seamless integration of failover-connectivity solutions to prevent service interruptions. Now more than ever, contingency networks play a strategic role in sustaining business operations. Unplanned outages can cost companies significant time and money, frustrating employees and clients alike, which creates a negative perception that is difficult to overcome.
Cellular data (4G LTE) bypasses wireline Internet service providers (ISPs) to facilitate the best redundancy possible. Additionally, in some situations it may be a challenge to acquire access to wired circuits or an event may call for temporary online access. For these reasons Edgewater Networks and Accelerated Concepts have teamed up to offer comprehensive control and flexibility for small businesses, retail, government, remote sites, and branch offices.
To optimize high-quality communications for scalable voice, video, and data traffic, Edgewater Networks enterprise session border controller (ESBC) can be introduced into the infrastructure though this functionality hinges upon an active WAN connection. An EdgeMarc ESBC paired with the Accelerated 6300-CX Cellular Extender will ensure your enterprise network remains robust and operational should its primary ISP go offline. Running a cellular backup via an Ethernet cable preserves the full QoS optimization of the EdgeMarc ESBC, which isn’t the case for USB-connected Aircards.
For additional information, please refer to Edgewater Network’s Knowledge Base.
Interoperability Matrix
This section covers interoperability information of the hardware tested for this solution. It includes the firmware versions of both devices as well as the date of testing.
Date | VOS Release | 6300-CX Firmware |
---|---|---|
10/2016 |
14.1 |
16.3.15 |
Caveats
The delivery of wireless services varies depending on the carrier and may lead to differences in the area of coverage, type of service (3G, 4G, LTE, etc.), available bandwidth, and IP address designation (Private or Public) among other factors. The interoperability test designed for this solution guide included LTE service, maximum coverage availability, and a public IP address assigned to each device.
Using the 6300-CX as a secondary connection requires dual WAN ports on the EdgeMarc. Therefore, the service described herein is compatible with the following devices: EM-4700, EM-4750, EM-4800, EM-4806, EM-4808, and EM-7301.
Notice that some Wireless Service Providers may assign a private IP to the device and voice traffic may be behind NAT. Contact your VoIP Service Provider to verify if voice traffic from a private IP is accepted and/or the Wireless Service Provider to request a static public IP for your service. While a public IP address is not an absolute requirement for the LTE Modem, the address needs to be routable and not behind NAT.
Accelerated 6300-CX LTE Router Setup
Initial Setup
Affix both antennas to the router and insert an activated SIM card before deploying the device. Be sure to select a location with optimal signal strength. For detailed instruction, refer to the tables that follow. Subsequent sections will outline site selection, powering options, and other device functionality.
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Site Survey
If you are unsure of the available cellular signal strength, or are choosing between several locations, please follow the instructions to identify the ideal installation site.
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Remote Power Installation – Powering Option #1
The included Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) injector allows the device to be positioned away from power outlets to simplify its installation needs. The adaptor consolidates the DC power and Ethernet connections so that both can be run to the 6300-CX via a single Ethernet cable. Distances of 300 ft have been tested on CAT6 and 250 ft on CAT5e. Note that cable conditions and the number of splices will impact actual distance.
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Direct Power Installation – Powering Option #2
If you plan to collocate the 6300-CX with the EdgeMarc device, you can directly power the 6300-CX without the PoE cable.
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Understanding the 6300-CX LEDs
Once power has been established, your device will initialize and attempt to connect to the network. Device initialization may take 30-60 seconds. Indicator lights on the Wireless Strength Indicator show you the Cellular Network Signal Strength. The Network Status Light on the front left of the device displays connectivity information.
Please visit www.accelerated.com for additional information and trouble-shooting tips.
EdgeMarc Configuration with the Accelerated 6300-CX
WWAN as the Primary Interface
The back panel of the EdgeMarc ESBC features an array of LAN ports and two dedicated WAN interfaces. To utilize the 6300-CX’s LTE Wireless WAN (WWAN) connectivity as the primary means of Internet access, connect the Accelerated LTE router to port WAN 1 on the EdgeMarc device using an Ethernet cable. A solid blue light on the 6300-CX confirms that its 4G LTE modem is online and an Ethernet connection has been established with another device. Similarly, a green light (blinking or solid) next to the ESBC’s WAN port indicates that the EdgeMarc is connected to the LTE router.
Access the Edgewater admin portal at 192.168.1.1
Please refer to the EdgeMarc VOS User Guide for an in-depth walkthrough of the device’s local GUI.
NOTE: The Static IP radio button is selected by default.
NOTE: A message will indicate that service will be temporarily interrupted as the new settings are established. |
WAN Link Redundancy (WLR) with WWAN Failover
The WAN Failover menu initializes WLR and further configures the interaction between primary and secondary WANs. Even with both WAN ports connected to an active Internet connection, the EdgeMarc ESBC is unable to utilize the secondary uplink until WAN Link Redundancy is enabled by selecting the corresponding check box. Additional settings may be engaged once the WLR status is updated.
Please refer to the EdgeMarc VOS User Guide for an in-depth walkthrough of the device’s local GUI.
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